Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates yesterday launched a $7.5 million Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scaling Hub in Nigeria, a major step in his broader vision to accelerate AI adoption across Africa.

The announcement came just a day after Gates pledged to donate 99% of his estimated $200 billion fortune to the continent while speaking at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Shortly after meeting Gates, Nigeria’s minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, welcomed the signing of the agreement to establish the Nigerian AI Scaling Hub, a national centre for AI development and deployment.

Tijani said the hub would play a pivotal role in driving innovation, strengthening local capacity, and scaling AI-powered solutions in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and digital infrastructure.

“This partnership marks a new chapter in our digital economy journey. The AI Scaling Hub will catalyse inclusive innovation and sustainable development,” said Tijani.

Gates praised Nigeria’s commitment to a digitally inclusive future and emphasised that Africa holds immense potential to lead in ethical and impactful AI development.

“We are proud to support Nigeria’s vision. Investments in AI should prioritise equity, access, and outcomes. I am happy to see that Nigeria is setting a powerful example,” he said.

In Ethiopia, he stressed the importance of deploying AI solutions that address Africa’s unique challenges and reiterated that access to cutting-edge technology should not be determined by geography or income.

“AI is finally stepping in and helping provide great health services,” Gates noted. He highlighted Rwanda as a leader in applying AI to healthcare. “As that works, we’ll roll it out throughout the continent.”

Through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the tech philanthropist pledged to support African AI innovators to ensure that underserved communities benefit from technology and digital revolution.

“We want to find the best AI thinkers, back them, and make sure that AI is not one of those technologies confined to rich countries,” Gates said.

“In fact, if equity were served, it should roll out here first. The need for medical capacity, educational support, and agricultural information is probably stronger here than anywhere else in the world.”

Source: IT Web